Max Verstappen struggles in Baku qualifying with engine issues
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 27, 2026, 6:16 AM
Last updated Sep 27, 2026

Max Verstappen faced significant issues during qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, citing a malfunction in the internal combustion engine that began in Q1. The Dutch Red Bull driver reported losing at least half a second due to the engine problems, which worsened session by session, impacting his performance and strategy. Starting from eighth position, Verstappen aims for a strong comeback during the race despite the setbacks experienced in qualifying. He noted the potential need to change the engine but hopes to do so without incurring penalties.
- •Verstappen struggled with engine issues throughout qualifying.
- •He starts from eighth position for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
- •George Russell secured pole position, followed by Charles Leclerc.
- •Verstappen aims to improve his position during the race on Saturday.
- •Red Bull anticipates changing Verstappen's engine without penalty.
- 6:16 AMYahoo Sports — Max Verstappen Reveals What Went Wrong in Baku Qualifying
"The Dutchman reveals that the internal combustion engine stopped working correctly from Q1 causing a loss of half a second and a chain of electrical failures. He trusts in changing the unit without penalty and aspires to the podium from eighth place.
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